Brainwashed and Betrayed: Cults and Criminality
Brainwashed and Betrayed: Cults and Criminality offers a unique look into cult psychology, real case studies, and criminal behavior, giving students valuable insights while exploring careers in criminal justice and forensic psychology.
Christina Nielsen
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(64)
What's included
10 pre-recorded lessons
10 weeks
of teacher support1 year access
to the contentAssignments
1-2 hours per week. 1-2 per weekAssessment
7 or more throughout the classLetter Grade
If you would like a letter grade for your assignments or for the course, please let me know.Class Experience
US Grade 10 - 12
Have you ever wondered how seemingly ordinary individuals can be drawn into dangerous and illegal activities by cults? This course delves deep into the psychology, tactics, and criminal behavior behind cults, revealing how leaders manipulate followers to commit heinous acts. Through captivating case studies, real-life examples, and thought-provoking lessons, you’ll explore the twisted world of control, coercion, and psychological abuse. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of cult dynamics, learn how law enforcement tackles cult-related crimes, and uncover the lasting effects on victims and communities. Whether you're interested in psychology, criminal justice, or societal influences, this course provides a thought-provoking look at one of the most unsettling aspects of human behavior. Prepare to challenge your assumptions, analyze high-profile cases, and gain valuable insights into preventing future cult-related crimes.
Learning Goals
Analyze the psychological dynamics of cults and the manipulation tactics used by leaders to control followers.Examine real-life case studies of cult-related criminality to identify patterns and consequences for both victims and perpetrators.
Syllabus
10 Lessons
over 10 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to Cults and Cult Dynamics
This lesson introduces the core principles of cults, including their structure, charismatic leaders, and the manipulation techniques used to control followers. Students will explore how these dynamics foster loyalty and can lead individuals to commit criminal acts in the name of the group. 1 assignment
Lesson 2:
The Psychology of Cult Leadership
This lesson delves into the psychological traits and manipulation tactics of cult leaders, examining how they establish power, control followers, and maintain influence. Students will learn how these leaders exploit vulnerabilities and create a sense of dependency among their followers. 1 assignment
Lesson 3:
Manipulation Tactics: Control and Compliance
This lesson explores the psychological manipulation techniques used by cult leaders to gain and maintain control over their followers, including coercion, isolation, and exploitation of trust. Students will analyze how these tactics compel compliance and shape group behavior. 1 assignment
Lesson 4:
Criminal Activity and Cults
This lesson examines the connection between cults and illegal activities, focusing on how cult leaders may encourage or directly involve their followers in criminal behavior. Students will explore notable cases of criminal acts linked to cults and the legal implications of these actions. 1 assignment
Other Details
Parental Guidance
This course delves into the psychological manipulation, criminal behavior, and societal impact of cults. We will examine real-life case studies of notorious cults involved in violent crimes, fraud, and other illegal activities, as well as the long-term effects on victims.
Potentially Disturbing Content:
Violence and Crime: The course includes descriptions of violent crimes committed by cult members, such as murders and assaults. I will not include details for the shock factor. Only details necessary for understanding the case will be given. Students will be researching a case on their own and may come across such details during their research.
Psychological Manipulation: Topics cover the manipulative tactics cult leaders use to control followers, which may be distressing for some.
Trauma and Mental Health: The course explores the psychological effects of cult membership, including PTSD and challenges faced by survivors.
This course may not be suitable for younger students or those sensitive to graphic content or distressing topics.
Students will encounter real-life case studies that may evoke emotional reactions, particularly when discussing psychological manipulation and the effects on families.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined September, 2021
4.9
64reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a focus on forensic behavioral analysis, particularly regarding victims of crime and cults. With a deep understanding of how individuals are manipulated into committing criminal acts, I bring real-world insights to this course. I also have experience teaching this and other similar courses live within the local homeschool community, engaging students with interactive and thought-provoking material. My passion lies in helping students understand complex psychological and sociological dynamics and providing them with tools to analyze and address criminal behavior.Reviews
Self-Paced Course
$17
weekly10 pre-recorded lessons
10 weeks of teacher support
Choose your start date
1 year of access to the content
Completed by 2 learners
Ages: 15-18
